Acts 8:9

KJV

But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one:

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} there was a certain {G5100} man {G435}, called {G3686} Simon {G4613}, which beforetime {G4391} in {G1722} the same city {G4172} used sorcery {G3096}, and {G2532} bewitched {G1839} the people {G1484} of Samaria {G4540}, giving out {G3004} that himself {G1438} was {G1511} some {G5100} great one {G3173}:

Complete Jewish Bible

But there was a man named Shim‘on in the city who for some time had been practicing magic and astonishing the nation of Shomron, claiming to be somebody great.

Berean Standard Bible

Prior to that time, a man named Simon had practiced sorcery in the city and astounded the people of Samaria. He claimed to be someone great,

American Standard Version

But there was a certain man, Simon by name, who beforetime in the city used sorcery, and amazed the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Acts 8:9 introduces Simon, a prominent figure in Samaria who had captivated the city's inhabitants through his practice of sorcery and self-proclaimed greatness. This verse sets the stage for the dramatic encounter between Simon's counterfeit power and the genuine, Spirit-empowered ministry of Philip, highlighting the spiritual landscape of Samaria before the full impact of the Gospel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the broader narrative of the early church's expansion beyond Jerusalem, as detailed in the book of Acts. Following the intense persecution that arose after Stephen's martyrdom, believers were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria, fulfilling Jesus' prophecy in [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - The Great Commission"). Philip, one of the seven deacons, plays a pivotal role in this expansion, bringing the Gospel to Samaria. Acts 8:4-8 describes Philip's powerful ministry, marked by signs, wonders, and the casting out of demons, which brought great joy to the city. Verse 9 then introduces Simon as a counter-figure, whose established influence and magical practices provide a stark contrast to the authentic divine power demonstrated by Philip, setting up a spiritual confrontation.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Samaria, located between Judea and Galilee, had a complex history with the Jews, marked by centuries of animosity and theological disputes (cf. [John 4:9](/john/4-9 "John 4:9 - Samaritan-Jewish Animosity")). The Samaritans, a mixed race descended from intermarriage between Israelites and foreign settlers, had their own temple on Mount Gerizim and accepted only the Pentateuch as scripture. In the Greco-Roman world, various forms of magic, sorcery, and divination were widespread and often highly respected. Figures like Simon, who claimed special powers or divine connections, were common and could wield considerable influence over populations eager for supernatural intervention or insight. Simon's practices would have been seen by many as legitimate expressions of spiritual power, making him a revered, almost god-like, figure in the city.
* **Key Themes:** Acts 8:9 contributes significantly to several key themes within the chapter and the broader book. One prominent theme is the **clash between genuine divine power and counterfeit spiritual authority**. Simon's sorcery, though impressive to the Samaritans, is presented as a deceptive imitation of the true power of God manifested through Philip's miracles. This highlights the importance of **spiritual discernment**, a theme that becomes even more pronounced later in the chapter when Simon attempts to purchase the Holy Spirit. Another crucial theme is **self-exaltation versus humble service**. Simon's desire to be seen as "some great one" stands in direct opposition to the selfless, Christ-centered ministry of the apostles and evangelists, who sought to glorify God rather than themselves. This verse also underscores the **spiritual vulnerability of people** who are "bewitched" by false claims, illustrating their readiness for the authentic truth of the Gospel, as seen in their subsequent reception of Philip's message (cf. [Acts 8:6](/acts/8-6 "Acts 8:6 - Samaritans Listen to Philip")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **sorcery (Greek, _mageúō_):** This verb, derived from the root of "magus" (μάγος), means "to practice magic" or "to use sorcery." It refers to occult practices, divination, and various forms of enchantment, often involving an appeal to spiritual forces or hidden knowledge. Simon's engagement in _mageúō_ indicates his involvement in practices considered illicit and contrary to God's will in the biblical tradition, distinguishing his power from the divine power of the Holy Spirit.
* **bewitched (Greek, _exístēmi_):** Literally meaning "to stand out of oneself" or "to be out of one's mind," this term conveys a profound sense of astonishment, amazement, or being utterly captivated to the point of being beside oneself. The people of Samaria were not merely entertained; they were completely enthralled and deeply influenced by Simon's displays, indicating a state of spiritual and mental enthrallment.
* **great one (Greek, _mégas_):** This adjective, meaning "big" or "great" in a wide application, is used here to describe Simon's self-proclaimed status. His assertion that he was "some great one" (τις μέγας) suggests he presented himself as a figure of immense importance, perhaps a divine emissary, a manifestation of God, or a powerful spiritual leader, aiming to elevate himself to a position of awe and reverence among the populace.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But there was a certain man, called Simon,"**: This opening clause immediately introduces Simon, using the adversative particle "But" (G1161, _dé_) to signal a contrast or shift in focus from Philip's successful ministry (Acts 8:5-8). The indefinite pronoun "certain" (G5100, _tìs_) highlights that he was a known, established figure in the city, setting the stage for his significant role in the narrative.
* **"which beforetime in the same city used sorcery,"**: This phrase clarifies Simon's prior activity and influence. The term "beforetime" (G4391, _proÿpárchō_) emphasizes that his magical practices were not new but had been ongoing, establishing his reputation and hold over the community. His "sorcery" (G3096, _mageúō_) was the source of his power and fame, distinguishing him from the authentic miracles performed by Philip.
* **"and bewitched the people of Samaria,"**: This clause describes the profound effect Simon's sorcery had on the populace. The verb "bewitched" (G1839, _exístēmi_) indicates that the people were not merely impressed but were utterly amazed, astonished, and captivated by his acts, to the point of being "out of their minds" with wonder. This highlights their spiritual susceptibility and the depth of Simon's influence over the collective consciousness of the Samaritans.
* **"giving out that himself was some great one:"**: This final clause reveals Simon's underlying motive and the nature of his self-promotion. He was "giving out" (G3004, _légō_) or proclaiming that he, "himself" (G1438, _heautoû_), was "some great one" (G5100, _tìs_ G3173, _mégas_). This demonstrates his profound pride and desire for personal glory and recognition, portraying himself as a figure of immense spiritual or even divine significance, thereby contrasting sharply with the humble, God-exalting ministry of the apostles.

#### Literary Devices
Acts 8:9 effectively employs several literary devices. **Characterization** is immediately evident, as Simon is introduced not just by name but by his defining characteristics: a practitioner of sorcery and a self-proclaimed "great one." This swift and direct portrayal establishes him as a significant antagonist to the Gospel's advance. The verse also uses **Contrast**, subtly setting Simon's human-derived "sorcery" against the backdrop of Philip's divinely empowered miracles described in the preceding verses. This contrast highlights the fundamental difference between counterfeit and authentic spiritual power. Furthermore, there is an element of **Foreshadowing**, as Simon's self-exaltation and the people's "bewitchment" prepare the reader for his later attempt to purchase the Holy Spirit, revealing his true, unregenerate heart and the dangers of seeking spiritual power for personal gain.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Simon's introduction in Acts 8:9 serves as a crucial theological marker, illustrating the pervasive nature of spiritual deception and the human propensity to seek power and glory apart from God. His sorcery represents a counterfeit spirituality that mimics divine power, appealing to human desires for the miraculous while ultimately leading away from true faith. The narrative underscores that genuine spiritual authority and power emanate solely from God, not from human manipulation or self-promotion. Simon's story thus becomes a cautionary tale against pride, avarice, and the grave error of attempting to commercialize or control the gifts of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing that God's grace and power are freely given and cannot be bought or earned.

* [Deuteronomy 18:10-12](/deuteronomy/18-10-12 "Deuteronomy 18:10-12 - Warning Against Occult Practices")
* [1 John 4:1](/1_john/4-1 "1 John 4:1 - Test the Spirits")
* [2 Timothy 3:8](/2_timothy/3-8 "2 Timothy 3:8 - Jannes and Jambres Resist Moses")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The account of Simon in Acts 8:9 calls believers to a profound level of spiritual discernment in a world still captivated by various forms of counterfeit power and self-proclaimed greatness. It challenges us to examine the source and motivation behind displays of spiritual influence, ensuring that our faith is rooted in the authentic power of God, not in human charisma or deceptive wonders. This verse reminds us that true spiritual authority is characterized by humility, service, and the glorification of Christ, not by self-exaltation or the pursuit of personal gain. We are encouraged to cultivate a deep reliance on God's Word and the Holy Spirit to distinguish truth from error, and to pursue genuine transformation of heart over outward displays of power.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might "sorcery" or "counterfeit power" manifest in our world today, and how can we discern it?**
* **How does Simon's desire to be "some great one" contrast with the example of Christ and His disciples?**
* **What does it mean to be "bewitched" or captivated by something other than the truth of God, and how can we guard against it?**
* **How does this passage encourage us to evaluate the source and purpose of spiritual power we encounter?**

### FAQ

**Who was Simon, and why was he so influential in Samaria?**

Answer: Simon, often referred to as Simon Magus in church tradition, was a man who practiced sorcery in Samaria and had gained considerable influence over the people. He was influential because he "bewitched" them, meaning he deeply astonished and captivated them with his magical arts, leading them to believe he possessed great, perhaps divine, power. His self-proclamation as "some great one" further solidified his revered status among the Samaritans, who were eager for spiritual manifestations.

**What is the significance of the people being "bewitched" by Simon?**

Answer: The Greek word translated "bewitched" (_exístēmi_) implies a state of profound amazement and being utterly captivated, to the point of being "out of one's mind." This indicates that the Samaritans were not merely entertained by Simon's acts but were deeply enthralled and deceived by his claims of power. Their spiritual vulnerability made them susceptible to his influence, highlighting their desperate need for genuine spiritual truth and liberation, which Philip's ministry subsequently offered (cf. [Acts 8:6-8](/acts/8-6-8 "Acts 8:6-8 - Philip's Ministry in Samaria")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Simon in Acts 8:9, though focusing on a figure of deception, ultimately points to the supreme and unmatched authority of Jesus Christ. Simon's self-proclaimed greatness and his reliance on sorcery stand in stark contrast to Christ, who is truly "great" not by self-proclamation but by divine nature and sacrificial love. While Simon sought to "bewitch" people for his own glory, Jesus came to set the captives free from spiritual blindness and the power of darkness (cf. [Luke 4:18](/luke/4-18 "Luke 4:18 - Jesus' Mission Statement")). The authentic miracles performed by Christ and His true followers, empowered by the Holy Spirit, are not for personal gain or to impress, but to demonstrate God's kingdom and bring healing, deliverance, and salvation (cf. [Matthew 12:28](/matthew/12-28 "Matthew 12:28 - Kingdom of God Has Come")). Simon's story, therefore, serves as a dark backdrop against which the radiant truth of Christ's genuine power, humility, and redemptive mission shines even brighter, revealing Him as the only true source of spiritual life and authority, in whom all genuine power resides (cf. [Colossians 2:9-10](/colossians/2-9-10 "Colossians 2:9-10 - Fullness of Deity in Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Acts 13:6

And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name [was] Barjesus:

Acts 5:36

For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to nought.

John 7:18

He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.

Exodus 8:18

And the magicians did so with their enchantments to bring forth lice, but they could not: so there were lice upon man, and upon beast.

Exodus 8:19

Then the magicians said unto Pharaoh, This [is] the finger of God: and Pharaoh's heart was hardened, and he hearkened not unto them; as the LORD had said.

Acts 19:18

And many that believed came, and confessed, and shewed their deeds.

Acts 19:20

So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.